A great Lirac, the 2012 Lirac Domaine de la Lorentine is comprised of 50% Grenache and equal parts Syrah and Mourvedre. Aged all in stainless steel, with a pure, fresh and focused profile, it offers up plenty of raspberry fruit, crushed flowers and underbrush aromas with a medium-bodied, elegant texture on the palate. Drink it over the coming 4-6 years. Drink 2014-2020. Located in the northern part of the appellation and covering more than 40 acres in Chateauneuf du Pape, this impeccably run estate is managed by Sisters Sophie and Catherine Armenier. The winemaking here is a mix of both traditional and modern techniques, with Grenache seeing mostly concrete tank and stainless steel, and Syrah and Mourvedre both seeing time in smaller barrels. Complete destemming, pump overs as opposed to punch downs, and inoculation are all the norm here. In addition to these fantastic new releases, don't miss the 2010s from this estate. Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565